The request to write an introduction for the club's page on the Internet illustrates two facts. Firstly, we are now in a High-Tech global situation. Secondly, as a small valley club, we have attained heights that were only dreamed of, weren't even considered as possible aspirations.

The area prior to the development of the mining industry, can only be described as a valley community consisting only of a series of small hill farms. Coal changed all that. The town is now one of the most modern shopping centres in the area. The development of the town as an important commercial centre has paralleled the improving status of the club.

Blackwood RFC was founded in 1889. The club has gradually progressed from the Monmouth Union to being one of the top twenty four teams in Wales. The advancement of the club has been based on the clubs policy of running a youth side since 1957 and more recently, teams from under eight upwards. The promotion of local talent has been paramount in achieving our success.

There have been a number of interesting events in our history. In the 1890's a Blackwood player was unfortunate enough to break his neck when the scrum collapsed. The inquest into the poor mans death was held in our old clubhouse. In the 1935/36 season, Blackwood played a Crosskeys XV under floodlights. We believe this was the first time a game in Wales was played under electric floodlights.

Blackwood have been proud to supply players for the Welsh Youth XV and to see other players from the club achieve Full International Honours. When I captained the team in the lean sixties, the feeling that the Second World War had halted the development of the club was still prevalent. The introduction of the National League gave us the opportunity to rectify this situation.

Our plans for the future are very exciting. In many ways the club is unique in the area as we own the ground etc. A fact that imposes a financial burden on the club. Inspite of this, we have continued to fulfil our plans to upgrade the facilities. We have recently completed another stage of our ground development plans by building a new changing facility. It is our intention to upgrade the ground to its maximum potential, creating one of the best complexes in the area. Naturally the club has a Sponsorship Menu that includes Match Sponsorship, Ball Sponsorship, Display Board Sponsorship, Kit Sponsorship, Team sponsorship or International Ticket Deal Sponsorship.

Blackwood RFC have always managed to progress without fuss, consolidate and move on, while at the same time retaining our local ties and generous hospitality, having hosted clubs from all over the world. This will continue to be our aim for the future. So, if there is anyone out there interested by what they read, please contact us.

O. Parfitt
President

"Blackwood Rugby Football Club will maximise the potential of rugby within the local community by providing the facilities that will meet the demands of its supporters & players.
We can then provide quality rugby within the community, by providing the facilities that will ensure that the local community will benefit"